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Facilitator Guide

Introduction to Motion Practice

What’s covered

  • Ways to make a motion
  • Briefing process and schedule
  • Parts of a motion 
  • Brief writing process
  • Sections of a brief

Before the session

Prepare the Attendees

Send the attendees an invitation for the session. Include this link, which has the videos and exercise they’ll need to prepare.

https://www.hotshotlegal.com/discussions/introduction-to-motion-practice/attendee

Prepare Yourself

Watch the videos and read the exercise so you’re familiar with the Hotshot material.

  • still frame from Introduction to Motion Practice

    Course

    Introduction to Motion Practice

    An introduction to motion practice, including the typical briefing process, the ways a motion can be made, the contents of a typical motion, and strategic considerations when drafting a brief.

  • Icon of a document

    Exercise

    PDF

During the session

Part 1: Knowledge Check

Ask attendees these questions to ensure they understand the topic:

  • What are the ways to make a motion?
  • What’s a dispositive motion?
  • What are the contents of a motion?
  • What are supporting affidavits used for?
  • What are the sections in a typical brief?
Part 2: Group Exercise

Lead a group discussion based on the exercise above. To encourage collaboration, divide the attendees into groups to discuss the exercise, then have a representative from each group summarize their views to the larger group. Call on people to share their thoughts and ask others to respond.

Tip for remote sessions: use your web conferencing system’s breakout room feature to divide people into groups.

Part 3: War Stories and Firm Specifics

Share your own experiences and guidance, including:

  • Anecdotes and war stories (e.g., about a near-disaster or a tough negotiation)
  • General practice tips (dos and don’ts)
  • Firm-specific guidance and practices

After the session

To continue their learning, attendees can check out related courses in Hotshot's Civil Litigation Basics topic.